ELNK ---GRADE:: **

Pre-Open Alert on ELNK on Unusual activity and growing potential of wireless...See News...

Atlanta, Nov. 15 (Bloomberg) -- EarthLink Inc., the second- largest U.S. Internet service provider, and Hughes Electronics Corp.'s network systems unit said Hughes will provide satellite Internet services to expand EarthLink's Internet coverage.

The agreement adds satellite services to EarthLink's digital subscriber lines, cable and wireless Internet-delivery options. The increased coverage will help EarthLink gain customers in rural markets, said Hughes spokesman Dave Zatloukal.

The shares of Atlanta-based EarthLink rose $1.17, or 16 percent, to $8.30 in late morning trading. Its shares have fallen 73 percent this year.

General Motors Corp., which owns Hughes, said last month that it may spin off or sell the El Segundo, California-based company. Hughes shares fell $1.24 to $26.96.